Connector for in-ear systems

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a connector for providing audio signals. The connector can include an audio signal and power cable having a first end and a second end, and an interface communication connector disposed at least proximate to the first end. Further, the connector can include a ground, power, and audio signal connector disposed at least proximate to the second end, wherein the ground, power, and audio signal connector is configured to accept a plurality of different audio signal and power cables from different noise-protection devices having differing pin configurations. Further still, the connector can include at least a first audio input signal cable in contact with the audio signal and power cable, wherein the audio input signal cable is configured for transmitting one or more of the audio signals through the interface communication connector to at least one of a vehicle and an extra-vehicular source.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The current application is a continuation-in-part and claims priority toU.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 15/489,115 filed on Apr.17, 2017 and titled “EARPLUG CONNECTOR FOR IN-EAR SYSTEMS,” which claimspriority to U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/696,029filed on Apr. 24, 2015, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,655,399 on May 23,2017 and titled “EARPLUG CONNECTOR FOR MULTI-SIGNAL AND MULTI-POWERRECEIVING HELMETS,” which claims priority to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/048,192 filed on Sep. 9, 2014 and titled“CONTINUOUSLY OPERABLE EARPLUG CONNECTOR FOR MULTI-SIGNAL ANDMULTI-POWER RECEIVING HELMETS.” These references are hereby incorporatedin their entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

BACKGROUND Field of the Disclosure

The current embodiments generally relate to a connector providing noisereduction and the transfer of audio signals.

Background of the Disclosure

Many commercially available connectors and/or adapters are used forcommunications, but few of them provide the capabilities of noisereduction, power separation and transfer of audio signals.

The current embodiments provide for an improved connector for audiotransmissions with noise reduction, and can communicate critical audioand audio signals from a user to a vehicle or an extravehicular source.

The current embodiments also provide a connector for reduced audio echoeffects for pilots by isolating the audio signal from a vehicle or anextra-vehicular source to ears of a pilot.

There is a need for an audio separator that functions between a userwearing a helmet without the need for an adapter, if applicable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

For a more detailed description of an embodiment of the presentdisclosure, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawing,wherein:

FIG. 1 depicts a top view of the connector according to one or moreembodiments.

FIG. 2 depicts an isometric view of an interface assembly engaging aninterface multifunction connector according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 3 depicts a partial cut away view of audio signals and power in anaudio signal and power cable according to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 4 depicts the connector in use with a helmet connected to a vehicleaccording to one or more embodiments.

FIG. 5 shows the connector usable with a garment according to one ormore embodiments.

FIG. 6 shows another embodiment of the connector that includes, forexample, a switch, an audio signal and power cable, interfacecommunication connector, an audio input signal cable, and a ground,power, and audio signal connector.

FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of the connector that includes, forexample, a switch, an audio signal and power cable, interfacecommunication connector, an audio input signal cable, and a ground,power, and audio signal connector.

FIG. 8 shows another embodiment of the connector that includes, forexample, a switch, an audio signal and power cable, interfacecommunication connector, an audio input signal cable, a input cable(e.g., a data packet input cable or ground power audio signal cable), anaudio out port, an adapter, and a ground, power, an audio signalconnector in communication with a multi-pin signal separator, and amulti-pin signal separator.

FIG. 9 shows another embodiment of the connector that includes, forexample, a switch, an audio signal and power cable, interfacecommunication connector, an audio input signal cable, ground power audiosignal cables, an audio out port, an adapter, and a ground, power, anaudio signal connector in communication with a multi-pin signalseparator, and a multi-pin signal separator.

The present embodiments are detailed below with reference to the listedFigures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following discussion and in the claims, the terms “including” and“comprising” are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should beinterpreted to mean “including, but not limited to . . . ”.

The current embodiments generally relate to a connector providing noisereduction and transfer of audio signals.

The current embodiments further relate to a connector providing noisereduction, power separation and transfer of audio signals.

In embodiments, the connector can be selectively switchable to providepower and to stop power to noise-reducing devices usable within ahelmet.

In embodiments, the connector can integrate specialized electronics intocustom-molded ear pieces and ear-protection devices allowing a user toreceive clear audio signals while simultaneously protecting the user'sears from damaging ambient noises.

In embodiments, the connector can prevent accidents by delivering clearair-traffic-control communications to pilots and/or air crew even duringextremely loud noises generated by a vehicle malfunctions or otherwise.

In embodiments, the connector can prevent injuries onboard the vehiclethat can occur when the air crew fails to hear commands from a pilot,such as to strap in during a steep descent or a roll to avoid anobstacle.

In embodiments, the connector can enable a user to more efficientlymultitask and process information while operating a complex andhigh-speed vehicle.

The term “a multi-pin connector” as used herein can refer to a connectorwith multiple pins that can be configured to transfer audio signals. Inembodiments, the connector with multiple pins can be configured tosimultaneously transfer audio signals and power.

The term “multi-pin signal separator” as used herein can refer to ahousing made of a shock resistant material, such as plastic, naturalrubber or synthetic rubber, water resistant material, metal coated withrubber, electro-magnetically shielded material, and combinationsthereof, which enables the transmission of clear audio signals.

The term “vehicle” as used herein can refer to any known vehicle in theindustry, which can include, but is not limited to: aircraft, acommercial jet aircraft, a non-commercial jet aircraft, a non-jetaircraft, aircraft trainers, helicopters, space shuttles, simulators, aspace exploration vehicle automobiles, motorcycles, trains, rockets forconnecting to a space station or exploring space, and combinationsthereof. The term “vehicle” as used herein can also refer to commercialvehicles, non-commercial vehicles, vehicle trainers or simulators, aboat, a car, a rotor craft, an underwater vessel, a submarine, a spacecraft, a remotely operated vehicle, deep ocean exploration vehicles, alocomotive, similar vehicles, or combinations thereof.

The term “audio signals” as used herein can refer to any audio signalsand/or transmissions that can come from a known device withbidirectional capabilities, air traffic control communication, airborneasset communication, ground based asset communication that can becommunicating with aircraft, crew member communication, one or moreoriginating communications, system advisories, system warnings,malfunction alerts, and combinations thereof.

The term “in-ear system” can refer to any device known that is capableof transmitting and receiving audio signals, communication, and/ortransmissions. As examples, an in-ear system can include, but is notlimited to: earbuds, earplugs, headphones, in-ear monitors, or variousdevices known in the art, which can be inserted into the ear forcommunication and or transmission of audios signals and communication inwired or wireless communication and connection.

The term “helmet” as used herein can refer to a helmet orhead-protection apparatus worn by a user, wherein the user can be apilot, copilot, boat operator, race car driver, or any person that canrequire audio information, video information, flight information, andpower from both the vehicle and an extra-vehicular source, such as anoutside agency, a control tower, a series of control towers, or anysource that is capable of communications, such as satellite towers,cellular towers and the like.

The term “noise-reduction device” as used herein can refer to a devicethat receives (either passively or actively) electrical power andgenerates audio signals that are opposite in phase of the ambient noiseand/or the directed audio transmissions being received.

The term “interface communication connector” as used herein can refer toa connector configured to provide audio signals, power, or audio signalsand power from the vehicle to the user.

The term “interface connector” as used herein can refer to a connectorthat provides the transfer of various components from the vehicle to theuser of the vehicle.

The connector can provide audio signals originating from at least oneof: a vehicle and an extra-vehicular source and provide power to anoise-reduction device contained in at least one ear-protection device,which can be worn under a helmet, for use while operating the vehicle.

The connector can have a multi-pin connector, which can be used forconnecting to or being in communication with an audio signal and powercable, which can receive audio signals, power, and audio signals andpower. In embodiments, the multi-pin connector can receive audiosignals, power, and audio signals and power from an interfacecommunication connector of an interface multifunction connector that canalso engage an interface assembly connected to a vehicle.

In embodiments, the multi-pin connector can be configured to accept aplurality of different audio signals and power cables with differing pinconfigurations. In embodiments, the multi-pin connector may not requirean additional adapter.

The connector can have a ground, power, and audio signal connector incommunication with the multi-pin connector for transferring audiosignals, power, and audio signals and power to a noise-reduction device.In embodiments, the noise-reduction device can be in an car-protectiondevice.

In embodiments, the ground, power, and audio signal connector can beconfigured to accept a plurality of different power cords for differentnoise-protection devices having differing pin configurations. Inembodiments, the ground, power, and audio signal connector may notrequire an additional adapter.

The connector can have an audio output for transferring audio signalsfrom the multi-pin connector to at least one of: an in-ear system,earbuds, earplugs, headphones, and at least one ear-protection device.An in-car system, can be any known system either wired or wireless thatcan be used for audio communications through a user's ear.

The connector can have a multi-pin signal separator in electrical andaudio communication with the multi-pin connector, the ground, power, andaudio signal connector, and the audio output.

In embodiments, the multi-pin signal separator can be configured forreceiving all or a portion of the audio signals from at least one of:the multi-pin connector, the ground, power, audio signal connector, andthe audio output and can selectively pass all or a portion of the audiosignals to at least one of: in-ear system, earbuds, earplugs,headphones, and the at least one ear-protection device whiletransferring power to the noise-reduction device.

In embodiments, the audio output can also connect to an adapter, ineither wired or wireless communication, wherein the adapter isconfigured to transmit or transfer the audio signals from the multi-pinconnector to at least one of: an in-ear system and at least oneear-protection device.

In embodiments, the inputs, outputs, and various cables can transferaudio signals, power, or both audio signals and power. In embodimentsthe transmission of the audio signals, power, or both audio signals andpower can pass through the cables in either direction.

In embodiments, the connector can simultaneously provide audio signalsfrom at least one of: a vehicle and an extra-vehicular source, whileproviding power from the vehicle to electrically operate anoise-reduction device contained in an ear-protection device worn undera helmet for use while operating the vehicle.

Turning now to the Figures, FIG. 1 depicts a top view of the connector10 according to one or more embodiments.

Turning now to the Figures, FIG. 1 depicts a top view of the connectoraccording to one or more embodiments.

The connector 10 can have a multi-pin connector 16. In embodiments, themulti-pin connector 16 can be configured to accept a plurality ofdifferent audio signal and power cables with differing pinconfigurations.

In embodiments, the differing pin configurations can have but is notlimited to, from 1 pin to 14 pins, which can be configured to transferaudio signals, power, and audio signals and power. In furtherembodiments, the multi-pin connector 16 can have overmolding on theoutside of the connector to provide a waterproof connection andshielding for the wires running through the multi-pin connector 16.Examples of usable multi-pin connectors 16 can be from 0.5 millimetersto 0.8 millimeters in length, ranging from 4.0 amps to 4.4 amps. Infurther embodiments, the multi-pin connector 16 can have a voltage lessthan or equal to 250 volts (DC). However, the multi-pin connector canvary in size depending upon the application.

The connector 10 can have a multi-pin signal separator 21 for receivingaudio signals, power, and audio signals and power from the multi-pinconnector 16. In embodiments, the multi-pin signal separator 21 can varyin size depending upon the application; however, by example, themulti-pin signal separator can be from 0.5 of an inch to 6 inches inwidth, 0.5 of an inch to 6 inches in length, and 1/16 of an inch to 2inches in thickness.

In embodiments, the multi-pin signal separator 21 can be contained in ahousing 50. In embodiments, the housing 50 can be a plastic or arubberized material. In further embodiments, the housing 50 can be waterresistance, electrical and magnetic interference protection, and impactresistance, or manufactured to civil and military standards for flight.

In embodiments, the multi-pin signal separator 21 can be configured toisolate all audio signals from the power being transferred from themulti-pin connector 16 or isolate some or a portion of the audio signalsfrom the power being transferred from the multi-pin connector 16.

The multi-pin signal separator 21 can have an audio in port 52 forreceiving audio signals, power, and combinations thereof from themulti-pin connector 16.

The multi-pin signal separator 21 can have a ground power audio port 54for transferring audio signals, power, and combinations thereof from themulti-pin connector 16 to a ground, power, and audio signal connector30.

The multi-pin signal separator 21 can have an audio out port 56 fortransferring audio signal to an audio output 40.

The audio output 40 can transfer audio signals to an in-car system, suchas earbuds, earplugs, headphones, or the like. In embodiments, thein-ear system can be custom made, so that the in-ear system can be wornbeneath an ear-protection device while wearing a helmet.

In embodiments, the ground, power, and audio signal connector 30 canprevent audio signal from entering a helmet worn by the user.

In embodiments, the audio output 40 can have a plurality of audiooutlets for delivering audio signals. In embodiments, the audio output40 can be configured to accept a plurality of different audio cords withdiffering pin configurations.

In embodiments, the audio output 40 can provide a first audio outlet 60and a second audio outlet 62. In further embodiments, multiple audiooutlets can be used or just one audio outlet can be used.

In embodiments, the multi-pin signal separator 21 can have or be incommunication with an attenuation device, such as an attenuator, or anyelectronic devices that reduces the power of a signal withoutappreciably distorting its waveform, a wireless device, such as aBLUETOOTH®, wi-fi, and ANT+, and a wireless adapter.

In embodiments, the ground, power, and audio signal connector 30 can bein communication with the multi-pin connector 16 for transferring theaudio signals and power received by the multi-pin connector 16 to anoise-reduction device. In embodiments, the ground, power, and audiosignal connector 30 can be configured to accept a plurality of differentpower cords for different noise-protection devices having differing pinconfigurations.

In embodiments, the ground, power, and audio signal connector can be incommunication with the multi-pin connector for transferring the audiosignals and power received by the multi-pin connector to anoise-reduction device. In embodiments, the ground, power, and audiosignal connector can be configured to accept a plurality of differentpower cords for different noise-protection devices having differing pinconfigurations.

In embodiments, the connector 10 can be used with a plurality ofdifferent interface communication connectors, ear-protection devicecords, and in-ear system cords, wherein each cable or cord can havedifferent pin configurations. In embodiments, each cable or cord can beused without requiring any adapters.

FIG. 2 depicts an isometric view of an interface assembly engaging aninterface multifunction connector according to one or more embodiments.

An interface multifunction connector 20 is depicted with an interfacecommunication connector 18 as well as additional connector ports. Inembodiments, the additional connector ports can be ports for an anti-gsuit connector 19, an oxygen hose connector 25, an expansion port 26,and a pilot-locking mechanism 23.

In embodiments, the power carried by the interface communicationconnector 18 can be any voltage usable with the connector, such as28-volt DC current. In further embodiments, voltages can be used from1.5 volts to 4 volts. In even more embodiments, 9 volts can be passed bythe interface communication connector 18.

The interface communication connector 18 of the interface multifunctionconnector 20 can engage an interface assembly 31.

The multi-pin connector of the connector can be used for receiving theaudio signals, power, or both from the interface communication connector18 of the interface multifunction connector 20, which engages theinterface assembly 31 connected to the vehicle or the extra-vehicularsource.

The multi-pin connector can be configured to simultaneously andselectively transfer power from the interface assembly to anoise-reduction device contained in an ear-protection device worn by theuser, to reduce noise and send and transfer clear audio transmissions.

An audio input signal cable, such as 41, can transmit audio signals,such as voice commands, from an audio input device, in which the audiosignals can then be transferred through the interface communicationconnector to the interface assembly ultimately to a vehicle, to anextra-vehicular source, or both. In embodiments, the vehicle cancommunicate with the extra-vehicular source, such as a control tower.

An audio input signal cable, such as 41 a, can transmit audio signals,such as voice commands, from an audio input device, in which the audiosignals can then be transferred through the interface communicationconnector to the interface assembly ultimately to a vehicle, to anextra-vehicular source, or both. In embodiments, the vehicle cancommunicate with the extra-vehicular source, such as a control tower.

The audio signal and power cable 55 can engage or be in communicationwith the multi-pin connector, the interface communication connector, orboth. Audio signals 24, power 48, or both can be contained in and movethrough the audio signal and power cable 55.

In embodiments, a switch 29 can be toggled to transfer the power 48 to anoise-reduction device when the switch 29 is toggled to an “on”position. The switch 29 can be turned off when the switch 29 is toggledto an “off” position. In embodiments, the switch 29 can be a depressiblebutton or a voice activated switch. In further embodiments, the switch29 can be a “switchable feature”.

FIG. 4 depicts the connector in use with a helmet 14 connected to avehicle 9 according to one or more embodiments.

The connector 10 can be connected to or in communication with a helmet14 and the interface assembly 31 that can further communicate with thevehicle 9, an extra-vehicular source 11, or both. In embodiments, thehelmet 14 can be a multi-signal, multi-power receiving helmet, whichmeans that it can be wired or in wireless communication to transmitaudio signals, power, or both, such as through BLUETOOTH® technology.

In embodiments, the helmet 14 can have at least one ear-protectiondevice 13 a and 13 b. In embodiments, each ear-protection device 13 aand 13 b can contain a noise-reduction device 22.

The helmet 14 can be formed by a hard-shell head covering 110.

The at least one ear-protection device 13 a and 13 b can connect withaudio and power cords 12 a and 12 b respectively, which can each engagethe ground, power, and audio signal connector 30 of the connector 10.

The in-ear system 42 a and 42 b can connect to the audio output 40 ofthe connector 10 with audio and power cords 12 c and 12 d respectively.

In embodiments, a first power and audio cord 17 a can provide power andaudio to the at least one ear-protection device 13 a and 13 b, while asecond power and audio cord 17 b can provide power to a device 400, suchas a night vision device, mounted to the helmet 14 and audio signals tospeakers installed in the helmet 14.

The helmet 14 can support at least one device 400 connecting to theground, power, and audio signal connector 30.

The device 400 can be at least one of: a night vision device, a nightvision goggle, a lip light, and a night vision monocular.

In embodiments, the first power and audio cord 17 a and the second powerand audio cord 17 b can be used to provide power to a recording devicemounted to the helmet 14.

A first audio input device 43 a can be a microphone in a mask 112. Thefirst audio input device 43 a can connect to a first audio input signalcable 41 a through the switch 29 to the interface communicationconnector 18. In embodiments, the switch 29 is not required.

A second audio input device 43 b can be a microphone attached to thehelmet 14 but not contained in the mask 112. The second audio inputdevice 43 b can connect to a second audio input cable 41 b through theswitch 29 to the interface communication connector 18. In embodiments,the second audio input device 43 b can be a boom microphone.

The first audio input device 43 a or the second audio input device 43 bcan provide audio to the interface communication connector 18 which cantransfer spoken words to the vehicle 9 and/or to the extra-vehicularsource 11.

The power transferred by the connector 10 can be a voltage appropriatefor powering the at least one device 400.

The multi-pin connector 16 of the connector 10 can be connected to or incommunication with the audio signal and power cable 55, which canfurther engage the interface communication connector 18.

In embodiments, the connector 10 can be used with a plurality ofdifferent interface communication connectors and different audio andpower cords, each having different pin configurations. In embodiments,the connector can be used without requiring any adapters. Inembodiments, additional adapters can be used when needed and can beconnected within the system, such as through the multi-pin connector,ground, power, and audio signal connector, the audio output, or near theswitch.

In embodiments and with additional reference to FIG. 5, the multi-pinconnector 16, interface communication connector 18, and ground, power,and audio signal connector 30, can additionally be configured to act asa ground between the helmet 14 and the vehicle 9, the extra-vehicularsource 11, or both to prevent electrical shock between the user and thevehicle 9, the extra-vehicular source 11, or both as well as to preventground voltage loops.

The connector 10 can receive and separate audio signals which caninclude at least one of: an air traffic control communication;communication from or to another airborne asset; communication from orto a ground based asset; in vehicle communication from crew members; anda vehicle originating communication further including at least one of: avehicle system advisory; a vehicle system warning; and a vehiclemalfunction alert which can transmit the alert from an audio controlsystem of a vehicle.

FIG. 5 depicts the connector usable with a garment according to one ormore embodiments.

In embodiments, the connector 10 can be usable with a garment 500. Inembodiments, the garment can be made of protective flexible fabric. Inembodiments, the garment can be configured to be worn by a user.

The garment 500 can be any wearable item, such as a hoodie, a sweater, ajacket, a pullover, an item that can cover the head, neck, or shouldersof a person, or the like.

In embodiments, the garment 500 can be at least one of: a fire-resistantfabric; a fabric resistant to chemical exposure; a fabric that aids inprotecting a user from nuclear fallout; and a fabric resistant tobiological agents.

The connector 10 is depicted with the multi-pin connector 16, theground, power, and audio signal connector 30, and the audio output 40.

The garment 500 can be used in connection with or in communication withthe audio output 40 and/or the in-ear system 42 a and 42 b, such that aportion of the in-ear system 42 a and 42 b or a portion of the audiooutput 40 can be under or through the garment 500, such as through audioand power cords.

In embodiments, an adapter 200 can connect to the audio output 40. Inembodiments, the adapter 200 can be configured or constructed to fitinto a pocket, sewn into the garment, or manufactured in the garment.The garment can have through holes, such as near the neck portion or thedraw string area, where power and audio cords 12 a and 12 b, the firstaudio input signal cable 41 a, or various combinations of cords andcables can be inserted through these areas and connect with the in-earsystem 42 a and 42 b.

In embodiments, the at least one ear-protection device 13 a and 13 b cancover the in-ear system 42 a and 42 b respectively.

The audio and power cords 12 a and 12 b can connect to the ground,power, and audio signal connector 30.

In embodiments, the garment 500 can be attached to the mask 112. Inembodiments, the mask 112 can be a respirator.

The mask 112 can contain the first audio input device 43 a which canengage the first audio input signal cable 41 a to transmit messages tothe interface communication connector that can engage the interfaceassembly 31. The switch 29 is also depicted.

The multi-pin connector 16 can provide a connection to communicate audiosignals and power through the audio signal and power cable 55. The audiosignal and power cable 55 can receive audio signals and power from theinterface communication connector of the interface multifunctionconnector that can engage the interface assembly 31.

The multi-pin connector 16 is depicted to accept a plurality ofdifferent audio signal and power cables with differing pinconfigurations.

FIG. 6 depicts an example embodiment of the connector 10 in a lineararrangement. The connector 10 can include an audio signal and powercable 55, which may have an interface communication connector 18 at orat least proximate to its 55 first end 56. Audio signals 24, power 48,or both may travel through any portion or the entirety of the audiosignal and power cable 55. At or at least proximate to the second end 57of the audio signal and power cable 55 is a ground, power, and audiosignal connector 30, which may or may not interface with at least afirst audio input signal cable 41 a, which may mate with an undepictedaudio input device(s) for transmission of input audio signals. The audiosignal and power cable 55 and at least a first audio input signal cable41 a may be glued together, corded together, contained within a sheaththat may or may not be elastomeric, or otherwise bundled together so asto protect and contain the connector's 10 two or more cables, e.g., 55,41 a, 41 b, etc. As an ordinarily skilled artisan knows, a sheath atleast partly envelopes cables, and is akin to the fatty sheath aroundnerve fibers. In various embodiments, the first audio input signal cable41 a, as well as any additional audio input signal cables such as 41 bdiscussed previously in this disclosure, may run alongside a portion orthe entirety of the audio signal and power cable 55 or be buried withinthe audio signal and power cable 55, i.e., coaxial; equally butoppositely, the audio signal and power cable 55 may be buried within atleast the first audio input signal cable 41 a or another cable of theconnector 10.

The sheath or other shielding for the audio signal and power cable 55 isto provide a Faraday cage that serves to block electromagnetic fields.The purpose of grounding sheath or other shielding is to conduct as muchnoise as possible to the ground. If the connector is not grounded, thenthe noise remains static, which lowers the protective effect of theshielding.

Turning now to FIG. 7, another example embodiment is disclosed that mayor may not be viewed as a variation of the example embodiment depictedin FIG. 6. Depicted in FIG. 7 is a connector 10, which from a globalperspective may be described as having a y-shape 90. The connector 10may include an audio signal and power cable 55. At or at least proximateto a first terminus 90 a of the audio signal and power cable 55,disposed is an interface communication connector 18. Audio signals 24,power 48, or both can be contained in and move through the audio signaland power cable 55, which may comprise a sheath that surrounds one ormultiple cables that carry the power and audio signals. Disposed on theaudio signal and power cable 55 is a switch 29, which may be at thelocation shown in FIG. 7; other locations for the switch 29 along theaudio signal and power cable 55 are also possible in other embodiments.The switch 29 may be removably or irremovably integrated into audiosignal and power cable 55.

Generally, the audio signal and power cable 55 of the connector 10 isflexible so as to enable free and easy movement into variousconfigurations. In some embodiments, this flexibility includes somerigidity so as to allow bending of the audio signal and power cable 55into fixed positions; these positions, however, are easily reversed orchanged to other positions simply by bending the audio signal and powercable 55 again. That is, the audio signal and power cable 55 may includeone or more rigid members 88 to permit bending the audio signal andpower cable 55 into a fixed position. The rigidity for fixing theposition may be enabled by metal wiring or other formable materialwithin the sheath that surrounds the audio signal and power cable 55.

The audio signal and power cable 55 branches on the opposite end of theaudio signal and power cable 55 from the first terminus 90 a. In oneembodiment, the audio signal and power cable 55 branches into a firstbranch 90 b and a second branch 90 c. These branches 90 b, 90 c maycoalesce or otherwise combine into a single connection point with theaudio signal and power cable 55 in order to form the y-shape 90comprising the connector 10. Here, the audio signal and power cable 55may engage or be in communication with a ground, power, and audio signalconnector 30 that may be disposed along the first branch 90 b.Additionally and alternatively, the audio signal and power cable 55 mayengage or be in communication with first audio input signal cable 41 athat may be disposed along the second branch 90 c. In a further exampleembodiment, the ground, power, and audio signal connector 30 may beconnected to a multi-pin connector 16 in order to accept one or more ofthe plurality of different audio signal cables, power cables, or bothfrom devices having differing pin configurations. The multi-pinconnector 16 may also be in communication with the ground, power, andaudio signal connector 30 embodiment depicted in FIG. 6 even though FIG.6 does not show that additional example embodiment.

In some embodiments, one or multiple clips, such as clip 91, may appendto any portion(s) of the multi-pin signal separator 21 discussed againin the next section and/or to any portion(s) of the interfacecommunication connector 18, first and/or second audio input signal cable41 a and/or 41 b, ground, power, and audio signal connector 30, and/ormulti-pin connector 16. Equally, such clips could appear in otherembodiments, including the one depicted in FIG. 6.

Moving on, FIG. 8 shows a further example embodiment of FIG. 7 withadditional componentry. For example, FIG. 8 depicts an input cable 95that may receive audio, data packets, or both. To the extent that theinput cable 95 accepts data packets, it may be called a data packetinput cable, but that does not necessarily exclude the possibility thatthe same input cable 95 could also accept audio input. In short, one ormore inputs cables 95 could be disposed or substituted for other inputcables on the example embodiments disclosed at least at FIGS. 6 and 7.As alternative embodiments, input cable 95 could be a ground power audiosignal connector 96 to allow power and/or audio at a different locationof the connector 10 as shown in FIG. 9. Additionally and alternatively,instead of the audio out port 40 depicted in FIG. 8, the audio out port40 could be a ground power audio signal connector 96 as shown in FIG. 9.

FIG. 8 also depicts a multi-pin signal separator 21 on the first branch90 b. The multi-pin signal separator 21 may have an audio in port 52 forreceiving the audio signal and power cable 55. On the opposite side ofthe audio in port 52, the multi-pin signal separator 21 may include aground, power, audio port 54 for transferring audio signals, power, andcombinations thereof through the audio signal and power cable 55 incommunication with the ground, power, and audio connector 30. Inaddition, the multi-pin signal separator 21 may include an audio outport 40, which itself 40 can have a plurality of audio outlets forreceiving audio signals. As shown in FIG. 8, the audio out port 40 is athird branch 90 d of the connector 10. In further embodiments, the audioout port 40 may include an adapter 47, which may be interchangeable, forconnecting to different-sized audio devices, such as in-ear systems,hearing protection devices that contain speakers, etc.

The multi-pin signal separator 21 can also include a volume and/orimpedance controller 69, which may be controlled manually,automatically, remotely, and/or locally. Control is accomplished byenabling logic reduced to hardware and/or software. Activation of thecontroller 69 may occur digitally by depressing one or more buttonsdisposed on or in association the multi-pin signal separator 21, byinteracting with a remote-control device in wired or wireless connectionwith the volume and/or impedance controller 69 and optionally themulti-pin signal separator 21, automatically by logic deciphering andadjusting based on environmental dielectrics, spacing and otherconsiderations, or otherwise.

As depicted, the multi-pin signal separator 21 is substantiallytriangular so as to permit the formation of a second y-shape 92.However, in other example embodiments, the multi-pin signal separator 21may have a different shape, such as being substantially quadrilateral,octagonal, dodecahedral, spherical, and so forth. And through use ofsuch other different shapes, more than two ports, e.g., three, five,eight, etc. audio in and/or out ports, are possible as compared to justthe two ports 40, 54 shown in FIG. 8. Thus, the interconnectivity andadditional y-shapes (or other shapes) possible through variations of thedisclosed connectors 10 are limitless.

With regard to the cables discussed in this disclosure, for example, theaudio signal and power cable 55, first audio input signal cable 41 a,the second audio input signal cable 41 b, and so forth, any and all suchcables can have embedded protocols such as BLUETOOTH®, Wi-Fi, Z WAVE™,etc. that enable audio, internet, and/or other data communicationbetween external device(s) and such cable(s).

Below, further example embodiments of the disclosed invention arepresented in a claim-like format:

-   1. A connector for providing audio signals comprising:    -   an audio signal and power cable having a first end and a second        end;    -   an interface communication connector disposed at least proximate        to the first end;    -   a ground, power, and audio signal connector disposed at least        proximate to the second end, wherein the ground, power, and        audio signal connector is configured to accept a plurality of        different audio signal and power cables from different        noise-protection devices having    -   differing pin configurations; and    -   at least a first audio input signal cable in contact with the        audio signal and power cable, wherein the audio input signal        cable is configured for transmitting one or more of the audio        signals through the interface communication connector to at        least one of a vehicle and an extra-vehicular source.-   2. The connector of claim 1, wherein the second end branches to    comprise:    -   the ground, power, and audio signal connector disposed on a        first branch; and    -   the audio input signal cable disposed on a second branch.-   3. The connector of claim 1, further comprising a switch disposed on    the audio signal and power cable, wherein the switch controls power    to one or more noise-reduction devices.-   4. The connector of claim 1, further comprising one or more clips    disposed on one or more portions of any one or more of the interface    communication connector, the ground, power, and audio signal    connector, the at least a first audio input signal cable, a    multi-pin signal separator, a data packet input cable, and the audio    signal and power cable, such as by overmolding, gluing or otherwise    attaching a clip to the audio signal and power cable.-   5. The connector of claim 1, wherein the audio signal and power    cable and the at least a first audio input signal cable are coaxial.-   6. The connector of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the audio    signal and power cable and the at least a first audio input signal    cable are bundled within a sheath.-   7. The connector of claim 1, wherein the audio signal and power    cable is flexible.-   8. The connector of claim 1, wherein the audio signal and power    cable comprises one or more rigid members to permit bending the    audio signal and power cable into a fixed position.-   9. The connector of claim 1, further comprising a multi-pin    connector for connecting to the ground, power and audio connector    and accepting one or more of the plurality of different audio signal    cables, power cables, or both from devices having differing pin    configurations.-   10. The connector of claim 1, further comprising an adapter for    connecting to an audio out port in communication with the connector.-   11. The connector of claim 1, wherein the connector is configured to    receive one or more communication protocols comprising BLUETOOTH®,    Wi-Fi, and Z WAVE™.-   12. The connector of claim 1, wherein the audio signal and power    cable is in communication with one or more of data packet input    cables, audio input signal cables, audio in ports, audio out ports,    ground power audio signal connectors, and adapters.-   13. The connector of claim 1, further comprising a multi-pin signal    separator in electrical and audio communication with the audio    signal and power cable, which is in communication with the interface    connector, wherein the multi-pin signal separator is disposed on the    first branch and between the interface communication connector and    the ground, power, and audio signal connector.-   14. The connector of claim 13, wherein the multi-pin signal    separator comprises at least one audio in port, at least one audio    out port, or both.-   15. The connector of claim 14, wherein one or more adapters are    connected to the at least one audio in port, the at least one audio    out port, or both.-   16. The connector of claim 13, wherein the multi-pin signal    separator comprises a ground power audio port.-   17. The connector of claim 13, wherein the multi-pin signal    separator comprises a volume controller, an impedance controller or    combination thereof.-   18. The connector of claim 13, wherein the impedance controller or    the combination thereof adjusts impedance automatically.-   19. The connector of claim 13, wherein the multi-pin separator has a    shape comprising substantially triangular, substantially    quadrilateral, substantially dodecahedral, substantially octagonal    or substantially spherical.-   20. The connector of claim 13, further comprising one or more clips    disposed on one or more portions of the multi-pin signal separator.

While embodiments of the invention have been shown and described,modifications thereof can be made by one skilled in the art withoutdeparting from the spirit and teachings of the invention. Theembodiments described herein are exemplary only, and are not intended tobe limiting. Many variations and modifications of the inventiondisclosed herein are possible and are within the scope of the invention.Where numerical ranges or limitations are expressly stated, such expressranges or limitations should be understood to include iterative rangesor limitations of like magnitude falling within the expressly statedranges or limitations. The use of the term “optionally” with respect toany element of a claim is intended to mean that the subject element isrequired, or alternatively, is not required. Both alternatives areintended to be within the scope of the claim. Use of broader terms suchas comprises, includes, having, etc. should be understood to providesupport for narrower terms such as consisting of, consisting essentiallyof, comprised substantially of, and the like.

Accordingly, the scope of protection is not limited by the descriptionset out above but is only limited by the claims which follow, that scopeincluding all equivalents of the subject matter of the claims. Each andevery claim is incorporated into the specification as an embodiment ofthe present invention. Thus, the claims are a further description andare an addition to the embodiments of the present invention. Theinclusion or discussion of a reference is not an admission that it isprior art to the present invention, especially any reference that mayhave a publication date after the priority date of this application. Thedisclosures of all patents, patent applications, and publications citedherein are hereby incorporated by reference, to the extent they providebackground knowledge; or exemplary, procedural or other detailssupplementary to those set forth herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A connector for providing audio signalscomprising: an audio signal and power cable having a first end and asecond end, wherein the second end branches to comprise a first branchand a second branch; an interface communication connector disposed atleast proximate to the first end; a ground, power, and audio signalconnector disposed on the first branch, wherein the ground, power, andaudio signal connector is configured to accept a plurality of differentaudio signal cables, power cables, or combined audio and power cablesfrom different noise-protection devices having differing pinconfigurations; at least one audio input signal cable disposed on thesecond branch and in contact with the audio signal and power cable,wherein the at least one audio input signal cable is configured fortransmitting one or more of the audio signals; and a multi-pin signalseparator in electrical and audio communication with the audio signaland power cable, wherein the multi-pin signal separator is disposedbetween the interface communication connector and a multi-pin connector.2. The connector of claim 1, further comprising a switch disposed on theaudio signal and power cable, wherein the switch controls power to oneor more noise-reduction devices.
 3. The connector of claim 1, furthercomprising one or more clips disposed on one or more portions of any oneor more of the interface communication connector, the ground, power, andaudio signal connector, the at least one audio input signal cable, themulti-pin signal separator, a data packet input cable, and the audiosignal and power cable.
 4. The connector of claim 1, wherein the audiosignal and power cable and the at least one audio input signal cable arecoaxial.
 5. The connector of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of theaudio signal and power cable and the at least one audio input signalcable are bundled within a sheath.
 6. The connector of claim 1, whereinthe audio signal and power cable is flexible.
 7. The connector of claim1, wherein the audio signal and power cable comprise one or more rigidmembers to permit bending the audio signal and power cable into a fixedposition.
 8. The connector of claim 1, wherein the multi-pin connectoris configured to accept one or more of the plurality of different audiosignal cables, power cables, or both from devices having differing pinconfigurations.
 9. The connector of claim 1, further comprising anadapter for connecting to an audio out port in communication with theconnector for providing audio signals.
 10. The connector of claim 1,wherein the connector for providing audio signals is configured toreceive one or more communication protocols.
 11. The connector of claim1, wherein the audio signal and power cable is in communication with oneor more of data packet input cables, audio input signal cables, audio inports, audio out ports, ground power audio signal connectors, andadapters.
 12. The connector of claim 1, wherein the a multi-pinconnector is configured for connecting to the ground, power and audioconnector.
 13. The connector of claim 1, wherein the multi-pin signalseparator comprises at least one audio in port, at least one audio outport, or both.
 14. The connector of claim 13, wherein one or moreadapters are connected to the at least one audio in port, the at leastone audio out port, or both.
 15. The connector of claim 1, wherein themulti-pin signal separator comprises a ground power audio port.
 16. Theconnector of claim 1, wherein the multi-pin signal separator comprises avolume controller, an impedance controller or combination thereof. 17.The connector of claim 16, wherein the impedance controller or thecombination thereof adjusts impedance automatically.
 18. The connectorof claim 1, wherein the multi-pin signal separator has a shapecomprising substantially triangular, substantially quadrilateral,substantially dodecahedral, substantially octagonal or substantiallyspherical.
 19. The connector of claim 1, further comprising one or moreclips disposed on one or more portions of the multi-pin signalseparator.
 20. The connector of claim 1, further comprising an in-earsystem for connecting to an audio out port in communication with theconnector for providing audio signals.